Glossop Chimney - An Eyesore or Landmark? Erected by Ferro Alloys

The Chimney

The 250ft chimney was planned by Ferro Alloys in 1977 to be erected on Surrey Street, Glossop. Planning permission was sent and granted later that year despite a 5000 name petition that was sent to the government. There were several meetings set up discussing the proposed plans. By the end of the year there was some legal action against the build of the new chimney but no avail.

In 1978 the construction of the chimney began which ignited protests from local people and were reports of 3 men charged of actions against Ferro Alloys. There was an interview with High Peak Borough Council by an Ombudsman on the issues of Ferro Alloys chimney.  There was no action until 1983 when a new campaign was established against the notorious chimney. The campaign grew in force over the years and produced several protests. Then 3 years later in 1986 there was a public meeting about the subject which drew over 500 people. ‘Glossop Clean Air Campaign’ was launched all over the town attracted over 1000 people to join the fight against the chimney.

There were new regulations brought in that pressed Ferro Alloys but there was no sign of progress or closure of the site. Ferro Alloys remained on Surrey Street until 2004 when the site was vacated as it came into disrepair. There was some hope in 2009 for the chimney to be destroyed but it is still standing .

The surrounding buildings have now been demolished but the chimney standing approximately at 250ft still remains today. There are now plans to bring down the chimney with proposals to build new homes on the site. 

It still stands high above the town today and some people think it is an icon or and landmark others think it is an eyesore but what do you think?

By M.Cox

In Addition: Is it feasible to build new homes so close to the town centre on a road that has limited access? Should the site be used for community uses?

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